AIS & ELA
ABOUT MATHEMATICS ACADEMIC INTERVENTION SERVICES (AIS) IN THE HIGH SCHOOL
At WHS, AIS math services are offered to freshman students in co-taught math classes. Two certified math teachers are in the room and at least one of them is specially trained to work with students who struggle with math. Lessons are differentiated to meet individual students’ needs and respond to individual differences so that every student can work to his/her potential. Extra help, and alternative teaching methods, are available in class, either on an individual basis or in small learning groups. Students are encouraged to utilize the resources available to them in AIS math classes by asking questions, communicating their needs, and seeking help in class.
FRESHMAN YEAR IN MATH AT WHS
Every freshman in WHS takes MMT in the fall semester and then proceeds to Algebra I in the spring semester. Each of the two math classes is only two-marking periods long and, therefore, students have the opportunity to earn two high school math credits in their freshman year. While many classes in the high school meet every other day, both MMT and Algebra classes meet everyday. Having math class everyday helps promote student success in math, especially for those students who do not find math “easy.” At the end of freshman year, students will take the Algebra I Regents Exam. Material from both MMT (in the fall semester) and Algebra class (in the spring semester) will be covered on the Regents Exam. Students must pass the Algebra I Regents Exam in order to earn a high school diploma.Students seeking a Regents diploma need to earn a total of three high school math credits in order to graduate. For those who find math difficult, but who are successful freshman year, two of those credits will be completed freshman year.
WHAT DO STUDENTS DO IN FRESHMAN MATH CLASSES AT WHS?
In the past, teachers discouraged students from talking in class. Classrooms are different these days. We want to prepare our students to work in today’s global workforce. Employers continue to stress candidates’ ability to work effectively with teams of people to solve work-place problems. As teachers, we recognize the benefits of students working together to learn math. So, we encourage students to talk in class. Below are just some of the things students are doing in both MMT and Algebra 1 math classes in WHS.
- Thinking aloud and sharing different approaches to solve problems
- Discussing problems and alternative solutions
- Actively participating in class discussions and lessons
- Demonstrating, and explaining, how they “see it” when solving problems
- Taking risks and being willing to make mistakes and learn from them
- Working collaboratively with partners, and in cooperative learning groups, to solve situational problems
- Verbally interpreting solutions and results
- Demonstrating their problem solving strategies and solutions to problems in small groups and in front of the whole class
MMT FAQ:
What is MMT?
Math Modeling with Technology.
What is math modeling?
Applying mathematics to explain real-life situations or solve real-life problems.
What are some examples of mathematical models?
All models are representations of some relationship. Some examples that we will explore in MMT are: charts, diagrams, drawings, equations, formulas, functions, graphs, and tables.
What technology is utilized in MMT?
A graphing calculator, computer software programs, and web-based programs.
What is the goal of MMT?
To introduce students to mathematical modeling, while continuously integrating technology into the classroom. By doing so, we are going to help lay a strong foundation for students' success in Algebra I class in the spring semester.
ELA AIS RESOURCES
READING:
Scholastic Article: Improve Reading
Reading can be improved by making connections with material, building fluency, and understanding meaning.
Book Wizard - Scholastic
Search Scholastic Book Wizard for children's books from all publishers by reading level and grade levels.
Free Rice - English Vocabulary
For every correct answer you choose, 10 grains of rice are raised to help end world hunger through the World Food Programme.
NEWSELA
Newsela is an innovative way to build reading comprehension with nonfiction that's always relevant: daily news. News articles can be leveled according to student's reading abilities.
WRITING:
No Red Ink
Personalized assignments to help students practice and review their grammar. Students will need to sign-up with teacher.
Grammar Ninja
A leveled game that provides practice for students in identifying parts of speech; students progress through three levels of difficulty. Must have Adobe Flash Player version 10.0.0 or greater to access.
ELL:
Duolingo
Learn languages completely free, without ads or hidden charges.